If you’re considering buying property in Illinois but are worried you won’t qualify for a mortgage, there is a solution.

An FHA loan in Illinois is for borrowers with low credit scores or any other difficulties that prevent them from obtaining a conventional mortgage. With an FHA loan, you can buy a home, build a home, or refinance your mortgage. An interesting fact to consider is that you will pay insurance premiums and mortgage payments.

How does an FHA loan work in Illinois?

FHA loans in Illinois (as in every other state) are administered by the Department of Housing and the Federal Housing Administration. The government guarantees these loans, but they are financed by third-party mortgage lenders, who the FHA approves.

Why are FHA loans so popular among first-time buyers?

The answer is a small number of requirements. You can get FHA in Illinois even if your credit score is as low as 580. You can also expect a down payment as low as 3.5%. Flexible underwriting standards are designed to help as many borrowers as possible purchase a home.

Let’s take a closer look at FHA loans in Illinois

Borrowers can qualify for a fixed or adjustable interest rate and two loan term options: 15 and 30 years. In addition to these details, remember that you will need to pay closing costs — for the appraisal and loan origination. On the plus side, the FHA allows sellers and lenders to cover up to 6% of these costs.

If you’re approved for a low down payment through FHA in Illinois, don’t relax. You will pay mortgage insurance premiums if your down payment is below 20%. This is how the FHA protects lenders from unexpected situations if you stop paying.

So, if you can pay a higher down payment, do so. If the premium is above 10%, you can stop paying FHA premiums after 11 years. If it is less than 10%, you will pay until the end of the loan term.

FHA Loan Requirements in Illinois

  • Credit score minimum 580 with 3.5% down payment, 500 with 10% down payment
  • Debt to income ratio — 43%
  • Credit limit — $472,030 for single-family properties in most areas
  • Mortgage insurance premiums — 1.75% down payment; 0.15%-0.75% annual premiums
  • FHA is only allowed for primary home purchases

How do you get FHA in Illinois?

Provide information about your credit score — at least 580, or 500 if you plan to pay 10% down payment. Also, you must confirm permanent employment and income — the debt-to-income ratio is no more than 43%.

Look for homes that meet loan limits — often $472,030 FHA. Therefore, look for a property that you can afford.

Compare offers from different lenders — You can shop around loan warblers and talk to lenders about whether they offer FHA. Check with them about underwriting and loan origination fees. This is the only way you can make a profitable deal.

Gather the necessary documents and submit your application. Important papers include tax returns, pay stubs, identification cards, statements of your assets, or any other savings.

What are the benefits of FHA in Illinois?

  • You may have a low credit score, which many lenders require above 620. Even if your score is lower, you may still be able to buy a home with an FHA loan.
  • Low down payment — only 3.5% for a credit rating of at least 580. Or 10% for a rating from 500 to 579.
  • You can become a homeowner despite your financial circumstances and start building equity.

Disadvantages of FHA in Illinois

  • Inability to avoid mortgage insurance — if you put less than 10% down at once.
  • You are buying a property for permanent residence – FHA is not suitable for purchasing a second home or investment property.
  • Higher interest rates on FHA loans than conventional loans.

Apply for an FHA loan in Illinois with LBC Mortgage

To simplify your path to buying your dream home, turn to a team of experts with 20 years of experience. During a free consultation, we will analyze your requirements and be able to select the best financing and comfortable interest rates. LBC Mortgage works with a vast pool of lenders, so we’ll give you plenty of options.

Let’s make the mortgage process as smooth as possible — so you can start a new life in a new home!